Iran flips ‘kill switch’ to hide alleged crimes as death toll rises amid protests

Fox News - WorldCenter-RightEN 4 min read 100% complete by Emma BusseyJanuary 11, 2026 at 02:51 AM

AI Summary

long article 4 min

Amidst widespread protests in Iran, the government has implemented a near-total internet blackout, according to cybersecurity experts. The action, taken on the 13th day of protests, aims to conceal alleged abuses by security forces against demonstrators. Rights groups report that at least 65 people have been killed and over 2,300 arrested as protests spread to at least 180 cities. Amnesty International accuses Iranian security forces of using lethal force against protesters. Experts say the internet "kill switch" is a centrally controlled censorship mechanism developed since the Cold War, allowing the regime to quickly restrict access. The blackout's duration is uncertain, but experts suggest it could last for days or weeks.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Tehran 30% United States 30% London 40% Human Rights Activists in Iran 60% NetBlocks ×270% Amnesty International ×270% Alp Toker ×370% Iranian regime ×480% Iran ×690%

Keywords

internet kill switch 100% iran protests 90% internet blackout 80% regime crimes 70% digital censorship 60% security forces 60% amnesty international 50% human rights abuses 50% cybersecurity 40%